Published: November 16, 2009 09:45 pm      

JCOIF extends deadline for soldier names

By TESA CULLI

tesa.culli@register-news.com

MT. VERNON — The Jefferson County Operation Iraqi Freedom Committee has extended the deadline to submit names of warriors who will be serving overseas during the holidays.

JCOIF raises funds throughout the year to purchase PX cards for local warriors who will be serving during the holidays. The cards are purchased at Scott Air Force Base and mailed to the warriors, who can use the gift cards at any military exchange.

This year the JCOIF has exceeded its goal to raise $15,000, raising about $20,000, according to committee member Joyce Poorman. The group plans ahead for about 25 warrior names each year. This year the group is extending the deadline for families and friends to submit names and addresses until Nov. 20.

“We know there are those out there who know of someone who is serving, but they need to let us know those names and addresses,” Poorman said. “We work so hard all year to get to this point, and we want to go over to Scott Air Force Base and get all those gift cards and have someone to give them to. Family and friends have to tell us those names, because of the Privacy Act. We understand the need for the act, but that means we need help from the community...”

Plans of the committee are to drive to Scott Air Force Base on the evening of Nov. 20 and purchase the cards so they can get in the mail and arrive in time for the holidays. Each card will be for about $750, according to information from committee member David Keen.

For more information about JCOIF or to submit names and addresses of local warriors who will be serving overseas during the holidays, contact Poorman at 735-2521; Keen at 214-0054; Joan Mandrell at 735-2827; or Regina Hamilton at 316-1230.